Steven Smith

Throughout my teaching career, I have honed my expertise in instructional design concepts and learning theory, leveraging them to create engaging and effective learning experiences. My experience in visual art teaching has provided me with a unique perspective on incorporating creativity and visual elements into instructional materials, enhancing learner engagement and comprehension.  I have a proven track record of developing tailored learning solutions that cater to diverse audiences and learning styles. Moreover, I am adept at leveraging technology to create interactive and immersive learning experiences that maximize knowledge retention and application.

VISUAL ART TEACHER 8/2001-Present

Maple Leaf Intermediate & Elmwood Elementary | Garfield Heights, OH

Instruction and evaluation of the Visual Arts program. The driver of high-quality instruction that enables students to develop a

lifelong love of learning. Create a positive, achievement-oriented, and structured learning environment that excites and

motivates students to reach ambitious goals. Known for program innovation, strong communication, and peer leadership.

• Design, develop and implement Visual Arts curriculum for grades K-8 and build classroom community by partnering

with caretakers and staff to facilitate children’s academic success and personal development.

• Remain up-to-date, and implement innovative instructional technology programs to increase student retention of

concepts and techniques which results in powerful school experience that fosters best, current, and thoughtful work.

• Chairperson of Positive Behavior Intervention Support program, oversee installation of school-wide digital reward

system and organize monthly incentive events.

• Digital reward system with ID cards program grew successfully and office referrals for negative behavior reduced by 75

percent-awarded silver medal of excellence for the Positive Behavior Implementation program at school.

• Spearhead initiative to tackle outdated curriculum with no program focus, reorganize curriculum to state standards

and plan course of study for students K-8 which.

• Initiative resulted in student work recognized at local level in addition to National Art contests-Visual Arts program is a

pillar of educational foundation of the district.

• Committed to thoughtfully engaging in identity work necessary to take culturally responsive approach to teaching and

relationship-building with students and colleagues.

• Create inclusive and inter disciplinary learning through the lens of inquiry, embedding visible thinking which results in

collaboratively planned, inquiry-based lessons.

• Develop relationships with students that support restorative practices approach to building community and fostering

strong sense of belonging which leads to boosted student self-esteem.

• Co-chair of the Maple Leaf Safety Committee and member of the Building Leadership Team.

Masters of Visual and Performing Arts Degree | Charles Sturt University | Bathurst, Australia

Bachelor of Science Degree in Art Education | Edinboro University of Pennsylvania